Just back from the Five Golden Stans trip. Great group of travellers and Anya was a fantastic guide. The trip was exciting, challenging, invigorating, educational and culturally different. Would recommend it to anyone who wants to learn about a part of the world which is unknown to Westerners. Be prepared to experience wonderful culture, great food and the friendliest and most hospitable people. Previously, The Persian Caravan was my favorite journey, but the Five Golden Stans may just beat it! Well done, tour operator!
If you want to discover 5 countries and their varied cultures, histories and scenery and meet some lovely people, all in three weeks, this trip is for you. We saw some wonderful, stunning scenery, met some amazing friendly people, found out about the past complicated history and the challenges they face today. It is fast paced, there are long journeys but totally worth it and loads to see and do on the way.
An incredible journey across a region that has not always been easy to visit.The trip encompasses grand landscapes, huge distances and wonderful opportunities to learn much from the local guides. Bek in Uzbekistan and Aibek in Kyrgyzstan/ Kazakhstan particularly endeared themselves to the group, bringing knowledge, consideration and enthusiasm to the task.
The trip endeavours to give wide and varied experiences and "gets off the worn track" with inclusions such as Termes, Uzbekistan near the Afghanistan border.